The
subject of this sketch, Irwin P. Mensch, was born near Reading, Pa., March 4, 1881. At the age of 15 he entered Callol Institute, Reading, Pa., where he
pursued advanced English studies. He next entered the Inter-StateCollege, Reading, Pa., where he
completed the stenographic course, and soon there after accepted a position as
shipping clerk in a whole sale hat store. He was soon advanced to assistant
stock keeper, but finally gave up mercantile duties to become stenographer to
one of the city's executives. After some time in this position Mr. Mensch
returned to the Inter-StateCollege and completed
the commercial course in such a satisfactory manner that he was retained as
instructor in penmanship and commercial branches. After teaching one year he
became chief clerk in the drafting room in the P.&
R. Ry. Company's shops at Reading, Pa., where he
remained for two years.

Mr.
Mensch became interested in lettering during the time that he was employed as
shipping clerk, and developed an ambition to become a good penman and engrosser. Insistent in his efforts to perfect himself, he
entered ZanerianCollege, Columbus, Ohio, where he
remained as a student for some time. He has since filled the following
positions to the entire satisfaction of his employers: instructor of penmanship
'at Inter-State College, Reading, Pa.; assistant commercial teacher at Morse
Business College, Hartford, Conn.; principal commercial department 'Spencerian
Business College, Newburg, N. Y. Mr. Mensch is an enthusiastic teacher and is
constantly trying to broaden himself and acquire a liberal education.